Last Tuesday, the ILS boys varsity soccer team hosted Archbishop McCarthy in a non-conference matchup of two South Florida soccer powerhouses. The Royal Lions controlled the match for most of the game and came away with the 1-0 victory.

The only goal in the game was scored early on in the first half by junior Samuel Rodriguez off an assist from freshman Zidane Laird. For Rodriguez, who registered 55 field minutes in this one, it was his first goal of the season.

Laird continues to have an excellent first year at ILS. He notched his second assist of the season in the game and continued to put pressure on opposing defenses.

The second half of the game the team was still trying to score, as a one goal lead did not feel comfortable enough. But the Royal Lions also focused on defense as well preventing the other team from scoring. 

Sophomore Manuel Lopez had a solid bounce-back performance as goaltender in this one. After surrendering an early goal versus Ransom in his previous game, Lopez was pulled. He returned to the field for the game versus McCarthy and responded with a good performance. He registered five saves and earned the shutout victory.

ILS is now on a 2-game winning streak and now has a record of 2-1-1. 

The next team they play is University School on Tuesday, December 10th in Fort Lauderdale. University is 8-0 and is one of the best soccer programs in South Florida.

The Royal Lions’ next home game is against Belen on Friday December 13th.